Vitamin A is crucial for cellular health but can cause serious issues, like hypercalcemia, when taken in excessive amounts, as seen with a five-year-old boy diagnosed with autism who ingested over 700 times the recommended daily intake.
The boy experienced severe pain and was diagnosed with hypercalcemia from hypervitaminosis A, leading to toxic levels of retinoids in his body.
Treatment involved hydration, specific medications for lowering calcium levels, and educating parents about the risks of vitamin A supplements, especially regarding their unproven benefits for autism.